Assemblymember Cahill Loves New York Parks

Urges volunteers to Sign Up for I Love My Park Day at Minnewaska State Park Preserve on Saturday, May 5

May 3, 2012

New Paltz – Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D- Ulster, Dutchess) announced today that this Saturday, May 5, marks the first ever I Love My Park Day, which aims to improve and enhance New York’s parks and historic sites through community service. The statewide event is being organized by Parks & Trails New York. Minnewaska State Park Preserve is accepting volunteers to assist in the clean up and beautification of the grounds.

“Minnewaska State Park, our ‘Gateway to the Gunks,’ is a place where people can appreciate the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “Our parks provide a place for educational and recreational fulfillment, a sense of connection and pride in our communities, and unique cultural and historic experiences. I Love My Park Day is a great way for us to give back to these facilities.”

Volunteers who come to celebrate their local parks will help by cleaning up park lands and beaches, planting trees and gardens, restoring trails and wildlife habitat, removing invasive species, and working on various site improvement projects. Those interested can register on the Parks and Trails Web site.

“Two years ago, I led the fight to protect our state parks from closure when they were threatened by budget cuts. Minnewaska and the State Senate House were at great risk, but we prevailed. Our great success happened because of the outpouring of support from our community,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “Our parks are not only a beautiful natural resource, but enhance the quality of life throughout a region that is dependent on a thriving tourist economy. I Love My Parks Day is a fun way to ensure that our local park will be ready for enjoyment throughout the summer.”